One of the main reasons I try not use 'Close Pop-up Automatically' in the Settings is because thumbs invariably tap the screen to close the pop-up on the same spot as the link to open it in the first place. This results in an annoying "go away!" "NO!" argument between visitor and pop-up.

Is there a nifty trick to allow the autmatic closing without having to tap away from the initial link?

I'm aware I can un-tick the box and use the cross to close, and/or use the (lock) and popup:close method; which is my usual weapon of choice.